The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has been honored as Man of the Year, recognizing his exceptional leadership in transforming Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Dr. Dantsoho received this accolade for his significant contributions to enhancing port efficiency, streamlining trade processes, and elevating Nigeria’s profile in the global maritime arena. Under his leadership, the NPA maintained port efficiencies that propelled Nigeria’s international trade volume to an impressive 5.81 trillion naira ($3.7 billion) in the third quarter of 2024.
A pivotal achievement during his tenure includes the successful execution of a national strategy aimed at reducing petroleum imports in naira, which effectively lowered foreign exchange demand. Moreover, he played a crucial role in Nigeria’s full membership in the International Port Community System Association (IPCSA), fostering greater trade transparency through the National Single Window (NSW) initiative.
His leadership has also been instrumental in boosting transshipment cargo processed from Lekki Deep Seaport, significantly supporting landlocked regions in Nigeria. Additionally, his diplomatic initiatives helped secure Nigeria’s reinstatement into the prestigious Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
As the first Nigerian elected President of the Port Management Association of West & Central Africa (PMAWCA), Dr. Dantsoho has positioned Nigeria as a vital player in regional maritime activities.
In awarding him the title of Man of the Year, recognition was given to his transformative efforts in making the NPA a crucial hub for sustainable maritime logistics, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
Dr. Dantsoho expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from the Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, which has been instrumental in the NPA’s achievements. He reassured stakeholders of the NPA’s commitment to maintaining operational efficiencies that nurture the national economy, stating that this honor will motivate the organization to further advance trade facilitation efforts.
